H.R.2474 - Expanding Appalachia’s Broadband Access Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2474, the "Expanding Appalachia's Broadband Access Act," directs the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study on the Appalachian Regional Commission's (ARC) capability to incorporate low-orbit satellites in broadband projects. The study will assess the capacity of low-orbit satellite services for business purposes, evaluate economic development growth in areas using these satellites, and analyze the cost-effectiveness of implementing broadband satellites for economic development.
The bill aims to explore innovative solutions for expanding broadband access in the Appalachian region. It requires the study to be completed and submitted to Congress within 90 days of the bill's enactment.
Ultimately, the goal is to inform future policy decisions regarding broadband deployment in underserved areas.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be a study conducted by the Comptroller General, providing Congress with information on the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of using low-orbit satellites for broadband in Appalachia. This could lead to future legislation or funding initiatives aimed at improving broadband access in the region.
If the study is favorable, it could result in increased investment in satellite-based internet solutions for rural areas. This could improve connectivity for businesses and residents.
However, if the study finds significant challenges or high costs, it may lead to the exploration of alternative broadband solutions.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Broadband Access: The study could lead to better broadband access in underserved Appalachian communities.
- Economic Development: Enhanced connectivity can spur economic growth by enabling businesses and remote work.
- Informed Policy Decisions: The study will provide data-driven insights for policymakers.
- Innovation: Exploring low-orbit satellites encourages innovative approaches to broadband deployment.
- Potential Cost Savings: The study will analyze the cost-effectiveness of satellite broadband compared to other options.
Potential Disadvantages
- Study Costs: Conducting the study will incur costs for the government.
- Limited Scope: The bill only focuses on a study, not immediate action, which may delay actual broadband improvements.
- Dependence on Study Outcomes: The benefits are contingent on the study's findings being favorable.
- Potential for Inaction: If the study reveals significant challenges, it could lead to inaction.
- Technological Limitations: Low-orbit satellite technology may have limitations in certain terrains or weather conditions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the states. Improving broadband access can facilitate interstate commerce.
Additionally, the bill's focus on economic development and improving the general welfare of the Appalachian region aligns with the principles outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution.
There are no apparent violations of individual rights or liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).